Flemish Christian Democrats wish to protect paternity rights from discrimination

Flemish Christian Democrats wish to protect paternity rights from discrimination
Els Van Hoof argues that men should be able to take legal action for gender-based discrimination.

As men do not always enjoy the same rights as women, the Flemish Christian Democrats are arguing for the broadening of the legislation on gender equality. This is reported in De Standaard on Thursday.

A woman in a disadvantaged position in the course of her employment, owing to pregnancy or maternity leave, can take legal action on the grounds of gender-based discrimination. However, the law does not make equivalent provision for men.

The Flemish Christian Democrats wish to correct this, by making illegal discrimination on the basis of any aspect of paternity or shared parenting. The party has introduced a bill in this regard, which has met favourably with its federal coalition partners, the New Flemish Alliance and the Open VLD.

The deputy of the Flemish Christian Democrats, Els Van Hoof, who has drafted the bill, says, “Within many occupational spheres, there is still pressure on fathers to reduce their childcare role, or not to take on such a role.” She adds, “The law still puts the man in the role of breadwinner. This is pure sexism.”


The Brussels Times


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